Artwork

A Littoral Tile

A Littoral Tile, by Winslow Homer, 1879
A Littoral Tile, by Winslow Homer, 1879

A Littoral Tile is a print by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1879 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

A Littoral Tile is a 1879 watercolor by Winslow Homer, an American artist known for his marine and landscape works. The print depicts a serene coastal scene at dusk.

Subject & Meaning

The work shows two figures on a beach, one gathering objects while the other rests. A basket and scattered items lie between them, set against a darkening sky with a sliver of moon.

Technique & Style

Homer's watercolor is characterized by fluid, expressive handling. Simple lines and shading create depth without excessive detail, reflecting his distinctive approach to the medium.

Context

The title A Littoral Tile references the shoreline, where land meets water, a recurring theme in Homer's work, reflecting his interest in the visual and thematic qualities of coastal environments.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Winslow Homer

Artist

Winslow Homer

Winslow Homer (February 24, 1836 – September 29, 1910) was an American landscape painter and illustrator, best known for his marine subjects.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.